Panel Warns State Will Fall Behind If It Shortchanges Education

The Washington Learns committee released its 18-month study on the state's education system Nov. 14, warning that in a 21st century economy, "we must invest in education to keep our edge." It recommends that the state fund public universities and colleges at 60 percent of the per-student average at peer institutions in "Global Challenge States": California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Virginia. The UW is currently $3,692 below that target. The panel suggests limiting tuition increases at public universities to no more than 7 percent annually, coupled with more support for higher education through state general funds.

- Washington Learns Report (.pdf file)
- Washington Learns Web Site

Also see:

• Columns Magazine: "Minding the Gap"
• Seattle Post-Intelligencer: "Offer students more help, state's colleges are urged"
• Seattle Times: "Gregoire unveils plan for nurturing students"
• Seattle Times Guest Columnist Bill Gates: "Getting our children ready for school, college and work"